Easy Chicken Stir Fry with Veggies for Dinner

If you’re craving a meal that’s quick, wholesome, and bursting with flavor, this Chicken Stir Fry with Veggies is an absolute winner. Packed with colorful fresh vegetables and tender chicken, all coated in a savory sauce, this dish comes together faster than you think and makes dinner a delightful experience any night of the week. Whether you’re new to stir-frying or a seasoned kitchen pro, this recipe brings just the right balance of nutrition and taste to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious and balanced: Combines lean protein with fresh veggies for a wholesome meal.
• Flavor-packed sauce: A savory mix that brings all the ingredients to life.
• Flexible ingredient options: Easily swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins.
• Minimal cleanup: One-pan cooking keeps things simple and stress-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the right ingredients is key to a standout Chicken Stir Fry with Veggies. These essentials combine to provide a perfect texture, vibrant color, and a perfect balance of flavors.

• Boneless chicken breasts or thighs: Choose tender cuts for juicy, flavorful bites.
• Bell peppers (red, yellow, or green): Add sweetness and crunch.
• Broccoli florets: Provide a hearty, bright green vegetable punch.
• Carrots: Bring a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant orange color.
• Snap peas or green beans: Add crisp texture and freshness.
• Garlic and ginger: Essential aromatics that deepen the savory flavor.
• Soy sauce: A salty, umami-rich base for the sauce.
• Sesame oil: Adds a distinct nutty aroma to the dish.
• Honey or brown sugar: Balances the saltiness with a hint of sweetness.
• Cornstarch slurry: For thickening the sauce to a silky finish.
• Cooking oil: Use vegetable or canola oil for high-heat stir-frying.

Variations for Chicken Stir Fry with Veggies

This Chicken Stir Fry with Veggies recipe is wonderfully versatile, letting you tweak ingredients or methods to fit dietary preferences or pantry staples. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!

• Swap chicken for tofu: A great vegetarian or vegan option that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• Add nuts like cashews or peanuts: Introduce a crunchy contrast and extra protein.
• Use different veggies: Mushrooms, zucchini, or baby corn all work perfectly.
• Spice it up: Toss in chili flakes or fresh sliced chili for heat.
• Gluten-free sauce: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-friendly.

How to Make Chicken Stir Fry with Veggies

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Slice the chicken into thin, bite-sized strips to ensure quick cooking. Chop all your vegetables into uniform pieces so everything cooks evenly. Mince the garlic and ginger for that fresh aromatic base.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, a splash of sesame oil, honey or brown sugar, and a bit of cornstarch mixed with water. This combination will create a perfect sweet-savory glaze that thickens beautifully.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat your oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and stir-fry until they’re golden brown and just cooked through, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 4: Stir Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and toss in the garlic and ginger to sizzle briefly. Then add your chopped veggies, stir-frying for 3 to 4 minutes until they’re tender-crisp and vibrant.

Step 5: Combine and Glaze

Return the chicken to the pan and pour the sauce over everything. Stir constantly so the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and vegetables evenly, creating that signature glossy finish.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Take the stir fry off the heat and serve immediately to enjoy the fresh textures and flavors at their best.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Stir Fry with Veggies

• Prep before you cook: Have all your ingredients chopped and sauces mixed ahead of time to keep the process smooth.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Stir fry in batches if needed to keep that high heat and ensure even cooking.
• Choose the right oil: Use oils with a high smoke point like vegetable or peanut oil to avoid burning.
• Cut veggies uniformly: This ensures everything cooks at the same pace, preventing under or overcooked pieces.
• Adjust sauce thickness: Add a cornstarch slurry slowly to reach your desired consistency without lumps.

How to Serve Chicken Stir Fry with Veggies

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime juice add flavor pops and a beautiful finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. You can also serve it alongside simple noodles for a heartier meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Chicken Stir Fry with Veggies in colorful bowls topped with herbs like cilantro or parsley. For a fun twist, try stuffing it into lettuce wraps to create a handheld dinner packed with crunch and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Stir Fry with Veggies keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

While stir fry is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to retain texture.

Reheating

Reheat your stir fry on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make veggies soggy; add a splash of water or broth if the mixture seems dry.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are slightly fattier and can make the stir fry extra juicy and flavorful, though they may take a minute or two longer to cook than breasts.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can easily make it gluten-free by swapping regular soy sauce for tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

What vegetables work best in chicken stir fry?

Vegetables that cook quickly and maintain a bit of crunch like bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots, and green beans are ideal choices.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes! Adding chili flakes, fresh sliced chili peppers, or even a dash of sriracha will give this dish a vibrant kick if you like spice.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply replace the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, and follow the same steps to achieve a delicious plant-based meal.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Stir Fry with Veggies recipe is one of those dishes you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again. It’s quick, nourishing, and endlessly customizable, making dinner not just easy but something to look forward to. So get chopping, heat up your skillet, and enjoy the satisfying harmony of fresh veggies and tender chicken all glazed in that irresistible savory sauce!

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